Ever wonder what graduate school is really like? When you transition from undergraduate to graduate school, there are some key differences you may encounter:

In graduate school, you spend less time in class but more time preparing for class by reading and preparing for discussions. Graduate classes are typically smaller, which means you often have to participate actively in discussions. Depending on your field of study, you might spend most of your time in a lab, field setting, or library doing research, instead of in a traditional classroom.

As an undergraduate student, you learn a little about a variety of subjects. As a graduate student, your study becomes more focused and you develop a deeper understanding of a particular niche. You may be expected to develop an area of expertise that you help advance through your own research. The need for original research is especially true at the doctoral level.

There may be more money to support your education in graduate school. Many graduate students are "paid" to go to school through research or teaching assistantships. In return, they work part-time for the institution. More than 70% of full-time graduate students at Purdue University receive funding by or through the University.

Unlike your undergraduate studies, you should treat graduate school like a job. Because graduate students are in class fewer hours, you must have excellent time management skills and discipline to use your time outside of class wisely. Balancing coursework with a teaching or research assistantship is a full time job!

Understanding some of the differences between undergraduate and graduate school can help prepare you for that transition when the time comes. Good luck!